Carton feeding and forming machine with selectively actuated lugs and related methods

ABSTRACT

A machine for intended use in feeding and completing a partially formed carton is disclosed. In one embodiment, the machine includes an overhead conveyor with selectively actuated, depending lugs that engage and convey the carton in a first direction while a first flap on a lid is folded and sealed. A takeaway conveyor includes selectively actuated, upstanding lugs that convey the carton in a second direction generally perpendicular to the first direction while second and third flaps are folded and sealed. The lugs on each conveyor may be closely spaced or overlapping to allow for selective actuation at a desired instant without the need for timing the corresponding chain or the carton feed to the machine. A diverter located at a transition between the forward and return runs of the overhead and takeaway conveyors actuates the lugs in a controlled fashion. Related methods of feeding and forming cartons are also disclosed.

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/532,528, filed Oct. 7, 2005 which is a national stage ofInternational Application PCT/US03/034067, Filed Oct. 27, 2003 whichclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.60/421,461 filed Oct. 25, 2002 and U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 60/492,161, filed Aug. 1, 2003 the disclosures of which are allincorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the carton handling art and, moreparticularly, to a machine for feeding a partially formed and filledcarton while closing one or more flaps to complete the carton.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Machines for feeding and completing partially formed and filled,top-loaded paperboard cartons are well known in the art. For many years,the most efficient approach for the high speed feeding and forming ofsuch cartons, including closing the lid and sealing the correspondingflaps, was a continuous or in-line one. An early example of thisapproach is found in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 3,267,637 to Baker,which is incorporated herein by reference. The machine disclosed in thispatent uses fixedly mounted, upstanding lugs or “pushers” carried byspaced parallel chains to convey the carton. Specifically, after foldingof the lid and pre-folding of the trailing end flap, the lugs push thecarton along while folding and sealing of the front flap on the lidsimultaneously occurs. Pushing from the trailing end of the cartonadvantageously helps to maintain the lid in the proper registrationduring folding and sealing of the front flap. To fold the opposite sideflaps in an efficient manner, the carton with the folded and partiallysealed lid is then turned about its vertical axis while forward feedingcontinues. After turning, the carton is conveyed in-line by upstandinglugs of a downstream conveyor while the side flaps are sealed, thuscompleting the carton.

A more modern “lugless” example of the continuous carton formingapproach is found in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,660,262 toLandrum et al., the disclosure of which is also incorporated herein byreference. In this approach, infeed belts frictionally engage the topand bottom surfaces of the carton for conveying while the front flap issealed. This eliminates the need for pre-folding the trailing end flapto avoid damaging it, as is required when using upstanding lugs. Afterthe front flap is sealed, the carton enters a zone including a pluralityof spaced parallel belts running at different speeds that complete theturning through 90°. The turned carton is then received and conveyed byspaced belts while the opposite side flaps are folded and sealed. Thecarton is thus formed in a continuous fashion without stopping orchanging the conveying direction.

While these continuous or in-line approaches have enjoyed considerablecommercial success, there are certain disadvantages. For instance,running plural spaced belts at different speeds to turn the cartonduring feeding increases the complexity of the machine. Moreover, toachieve turning through 90 degrees while continuously conveying thecarton, the machine must have a relatively great longitudinal dimension.This requirement can present difficulties where floor space is limited.Maintenance costs are also increased in view of the need for ensuringthat the differential speeds of the belts are in the proper relationshipfor turning the carton in the desired fashion. In the modern approachusing spaced top and bottom running belts to feed the carton while thefront flap is sealed, the differential force created on the oppositesurfaces of the carton must also be kept in check, as it can lead tomis-registration of the lid or closure. The problem withmis-registration is especially prevalent during high speed conveying,which of course is a desirable mode of operation to maximizeproductivity.

As suggested above, others in the past have avoided the mis-registrationproblem by employing spaced conveyors with fixed, upstanding lugs forengaging and pushing the carton from along the trailing end. In thisarrangement, the conveyor speed is selected to ensure that theupstanding lugs reach the trailing end of the carton at the desiredinstant in time. The Baker '637 patent is representative of thisapproach. However, the more modern types of “pusher” conveyors includeselectively extendable lugs capable of moving from a retracted positionto an actuated position for engaging and conveying the carton. In eithercase, pushing a top-loaded carton from along the trailing end using lugshelps to ensure the lid or closure is maintained in proper registration.Consequently, keeping the carton conveying speed in check may beunnecessary using this type of arrangement.

Although the use of extensible lugs solves the timing problemsassociated with fixed lugs and the mis-registration problems that mayresult from using spaced belt conveyors, all known prior approachesemploy lugs attached to the associated chain at fixed intervalsgenerally selected to correspond to the length of the cartons in theconveying direction. This lug-to-lug spacing serves as a significantlimitation on the operating speed or throughput of the machine. This isbecause, unless the actuated lug reaches the trailing end of the cartonat the exact instant of introduction, a significant delay may occurwhile this lug catches up (or the next-in-line actuated lug reaches thecarton, in the case where the preceding actuated lug has alreadypassed). In relative terns, this resulting delay may be substantial,especially when the length of the carton in the conveying direction onlyslightly exceeds the fixed pitch distance of the lugs. Resolving thisproblem requires precisely timing the feeding of the cartons to themachine, but this complicates matters and does not allow for use in anarrangement where the carton feed is random.

Additionally, past and current mechanisms used to actuate extensiblelugs are somewhat obtuse and inefficient. In the usual case, the lugtraveling along the forward run immediately extends into the conveyingpath in a single, hurried movement and retracts in this same fashion. Asa result, it often interferes with the proper conveyance of the cartons,and dictates maintaining a large space between them (which deleteriouslyeither decreases the throughput or increases the footprint/size of themachine). Once pivoted, many conventional types of lugs also lock in theactuated position and a pivot block, cam or like structure is requiredto actively engage and return the actuated lug to the retractedposition. This requirement adds to the overall complexity, whichdirectly correlates to both the manufacturing and maintenance costs.

Accordingly, a need exists for an improved carton feeding and formingmachine that overcomes the foregoing limitations and others. A need isalso identified for an improved conveyor with selectively actuated lugshaving a small “pitch” (such as, for example, a center-to-center spacingless than the width of a lug in the conveying direction). A selected oneof such closely spaced lugs could be actuated at a desired instant intime for engaging a carton or other object, thus making such anarrangement better adapted for use in conveying cartons of varyinglengths or introduced in a random fashion. As demonstrated herein, theuse of such lugs in a carton feeding and forming machine would provide anumber of benefits, including but not limited to a vast improvement inefficiency, reliability, and accuracy of operation with a concomitantreduction in operating and maintenance costs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, a machine forconveying a carton including a lid having at least one flap along a pathis disclosed. The machine comprises an overhead conveyor including atleast one first lug selectively movable to a depending position forengaging and conveying the carton in a first direction. A takeawayconveyor adjacent to the overhead conveyor includes at least one secondlug. This second lug is selectively movable to an upstanding positionfor engaging and conveying the carton in a second direction generallyperpendicular to the first direction. Means for folding the at least oneflap as the carton is conveyed along the path by the overhead conveyoror the takeaway conveyor is also provided.

In one embodiment, the first lug of the overhead conveyor pivots betweena retracted position overlying the conveying path and the dependingposition for engaging the carton. The takeaway conveyor may include apair of generally parallel conveyor chains, each including at least onesecond lug. Each second lug is preferably a pop-up lug movable between aretracted position below the conveying path and an upstanding position.The machine may further include a rotatable wheel having at least oneprojection for at least partially closing the first flap before orduring the engagement with the depending lug.

The means for folding the at least one flap maybe associated with theoverhead conveyor, and may include a stationary plow over which the flappasses and at least one roller wheel for completing the folding inassociation with the plow. The carton may further include second andthird flaps, and means for folding the second and third flaps may bepositioned along the takeaway conveyor. The means for folding the secondand third flaps may include a stationary plow over which each of thesecond and third flaps pass and at least one roller wheel for completingthe folding of each of the second and third flaps in association withthe corresponding plow. Means for applying or activating an adhesive forsealing the first, second, and third flaps may also be provided.

In accordance with a second aspect of the invention, a machine forconveying and at least partially folding a flap associated with atrailing end of a carton is disclosed. The machine comprises a rotatablewheel having at least one radially extending projection for engaging andat least partially folding the flap. An overhead conveyor including atleast one lug selectively movable to a depending position engages thetrailing end of the carton once the flap is at least partially folded bythe projection and conveys the carton in a conveying direction. Thepartial folding by the wheel helps to prevent the flap from beingdamaged by the depending lug upon engagement.

In one embodiment, the overhead conveyor includes a pair of parallelconveyor chains. Each chain carries a plurality of lugs independentlyand selectively movable to the depending position. To permit selectiveactuation at a desired instant in time, such as for engaging the cartonas it is introduced to the machine, the lugs associated with each chainmay overlap with each other in the conveying direction. Such overlappinglugs thus create the desirable small pitch.

The rotatable wheel preferably includes a plurality ofradially-extending projections. An upstream sensor senses the locationof the carton and generates a corresponding signal. This signal is usedto actuate the wheel such that the projection engages the flap at theappropriate instant in time to avoid damaging the carton.

A support surface is provided along which the carton is conveyed by theoverhead conveyor, and a takeaway conveyor engages and conveys thecarton upon exiting the overhead conveyor. Preferably, the takeawayconveyor is generally perpendicular to the overhead conveyor, and mayinclude a pair of parallel conveyor chains. Each chain may include aplurality of lugs independently and selectively movable to an upstandingposition for engaging and conveying the carton. Besides a takeawayconveyor, an infeed conveyor may be provided for feeding randomlyreceived cartons to the overhead conveyor at a substantially constantspeed.

In accordance with a third aspect of the invention, a conveyor forconveying a carton is disclosed. The conveyor comprises an endless chainhaving at least one pivotally mounted lug. The chain is driven in aconveying direction along an endless path including a forward run, areturn run, and a first transition from the forward run to the returnrun. A guide structure positioned at least partially along the forwardrun or return run includes a first surface and a second surface. Apivoting finger elongated in the conveying direction is provided alongthe first transition. The finger includes a first, home position forallowing the at least one lug to pass in a retracted position and asecond position for selectively guiding at least a portion of the luginto engagement with the second surface. The second surface of the guidestructure is specially contoured to gradually move the lug to anactuated or operative position for engaging or conveying the carton.

In one embodiment, the finger is tapered and includes opposed surfacesfor engaging the portion of the lug. A rotary solenoid is also providedfor pivoting the finger between the first and second positions. Theportion of the lug may be a transverse tab having: (1) a generally flatfirst face for engaging the finger in the second position and the secondface of the guide structure; and (2) an inclined second face forengaging the finger in the first position and the first surface of theguide structure. The engagement with the diverter in the second positionpivots the lug approximately 10° before engaging the second surface ofthe guide structure. The engagement with the second surface of the guidestructure may pivot the lug approximately 50°.

The lug includes a slot for receiving a pin associated with the conveyorchain. The slot defines a maximum range of pivoting movement for thelug. Preferably, the lug is adapted for engaging a leading end of thecarton being conveyed. However, the lug may also be adapted for engaginga trailing end of the carton being conveyed.

In accordance with a fourth aspect of the invention, a driven conveyorfor selectively engaging an object capable of moving in a conveyingdirection is disclosed. The driven conveyor comprises a plurality oflugs. Each lug is capable of moving from a normal position to anactuated position in which at least part of the lug extends in agenerally vertical direction for engaging the object. The drivenconveyor further includes a diverter for selectively diverting aselected lug in the normal position to the actuated position. To allowfor selective actuation at a desired instant in time and desiredlocation for immediately engaging a fleeting object, such as a carton,at least a portion of a first lug overlaps with at least a portion of asecond, adjacent lug in one of the conveying direction or a directiongenerally transverse to both the conveying direction and the verticaldirection when the first and second lugs are in the normal position.

In one embodiment the lugs are structurally identical, and a distancefrom a corresponding point on each of the first and second lugs, or“pitch,” in the normal position measured in the conveying direction isabout 2.5 inches or less. Preferably, an endless chain carries andconnects the lugs together. As a result of the close spacing, each footof chain as measured in the conveying direction may include about fivelugs (and, more specifically, 4.8 lugs).

With respect to the overlapping nature of the lugs, the portion of thefirst lug in the normal position may overlap with the portion of thesecond lug in the actuated position. The first lug may be a leading lugor a trailing lug. Since the lugs overlap, two adjacent ones are spacedapart a distance no greater than a width of a single lug in theconveying direction when in the actuated position.

The part of each lug extending in the generally vertical direction is apusher. The pusher has an engagement face adapted for engaging theobject being conveyed. The engagement face is preferably generallyperpendicular to the conveying direction when the corresponding lug isin the actuated position. The pusher of tie first lug in the normalposition may be the portion overlapping with the portion of the secondlug in the conveying direction. In the normal position, the engagementface of each pusher is oriented at an acute angle relative to agenerally horizontal plane, but is upstanding in the actuated positionand may depend from the conveyor. The movement from the normal positionto the actuated position is pivoting such that a point on the lugfollows a generally arcuate path. Moreover, it is preferable that, onceactuated, the lug passively returns to the normal position.

The diverter for actuating the lugs may include a tapered finger havingopposed sides. A motive device such as a rotary solenoid rotates thefinger between a first position and a second position. The diverter mayfurther include a guide structure having a first surface and a secondsurface. The finger in the first position allows the lugs to pass in thenormal position and in the second position selectively engages andguides a portion of the lug into engagement with the second surface.

The portion of the lug engaged by the diverter may include: (1) aninclined first face for engaging a first side of the finger in the firstposition and the first surface of the guide structure; and (2) agenerally flat second face for engaging a second side of the finger inthe second position and the second surface of the guide structure. Theengagement with the second side of the finger pivots the selected lugapproximately 10°. The engagement with the second surface of the guidestructure pivots the selected lug approximately 50°. Each lug preferablyincludes a slot for receiving a pin associated with a chaininterconnecting the lugs. The slot defines a maximum range of pivotingmovement for the lug (e.g., 60°).

In accordance with a fifth aspect of the invention, a driven conveyorfor selectively engaging an object capable of moving in a conveyingdirection is disclosed. The conveyor comprises a plurality of lugs, eachcapable of moving from a normal position to an actuated position inwhich at least part of the lug extends in a generally vertical directionfor engaging the object. A diverter is provided for selectivelydiverting a selected lug in the normal position to the actuatedposition. To permit selective actuation at a desired instant in time andat a location for immediately engaging a fleeting object, each lug isspaced apart a distance no greater than a width of a single one of thelugs in the conveying direction when in the actuated position, and mayeven overlap.

In accordance with a sixth aspect of the invention, a driven conveyorfor selectively engaging an object capable of moving in a conveyingdirection along a conveying path is disclosed. The conveyor comprises aplurality of lugs capable of moving from a normal to an actuatedposition such that a part of the lug extends vertically into theconveying path for engaging the object. A diverter elongated in theconveying direction and capable of moving from a first position to asecond position is provided. The diverter engages and initiates movementof a selected lug to the actuated position. An actuator selectivelymoves the diverter toward the second position, and a guide structuremaintains the selected lug in the actuated position for engaging theobject. At least a portion of a first lug overlaps with at least aportion of the second lug in one of the conveying direction or adirection generally transverse to both the conveying direction and thevertical direction, when the first and second lugs are in a normalposition.

In accordance with a seventh aspect of the invention, a system forsequentially receiving and conveying randomly spaced cartons movingalong a conveying path is disclosed. The system comprises a conveyorincluding at least one chain driven in an endless path with a forwardrun extending at least partially along the conveying path. The chainincludes a plurality of closely spaced first lugs adapted forselectively moving into the conveying path in an actuated condition toengage a next-in-line carton. A diverter positioned adjacent to thechain assumes a first, home position for allowing the lugs to pass or asecond position for guiding a selected lug to the actuated condition. Asensor positioned adjacent the conveyor senses the next-in-line cartonand generates a corresponding output signal. A controller uses theoutput signal to actuate the diverter to guide the selected lug to theactuated position, ready for engaging the next-in-line cartonimmediately upon entering the conveying path adjacent the forward run ofthe conveyor. As a result, efficient conveyance of the cartons isachieved without the need for matching the driving of the endless chainwith the receiving of the cartons by the conveyor.

In one embodiment, the diverter comprises a tapered finger havingopposed surfaces for engaging a portion of the selected lug and furtherincluding a motive device associated with the controller for pivotingthe finger between the first and second positions. The chain includes areturn run and a first transition from the forward run to the returnrun, with the finger being elongated in the conveying direction andlocated along the first transition. A guide structure is positioned atleast partially along the forward run. The guide structure has a firstsurface and a second surface contoured to gradually move the lug to theactuated condition for engaging the next-in-line carton. The controllermay include a dimension of the next-in-line carton in a conveyingdirection. As a result, a time interval until the next-in-line cartonreaches a position for engagement by the selected lug is determined bythe controller and used to determine the selected instant in time foractuating the selected lug.

Preferably, at least a portion of a first lug in said plurality of lugsoverlaps with at least a portion of a second, adjacent lug in one of theconveying direction or a direction generally transverse to both theconveying direction and the vertical direction when the first and secondlugs are in a non-actuated position. The conveyor is also preferably afirst conveyor including first and second spaced chains, said firstchain including the plurality of closely spaced first lugs and saidsecond chain including a plurality of closely spaced second lugs capableof moving to an actuated condition for engaging the next-in-line carton.In that case, the diverter is a first diverter for guiding the selectedfirst lug to the actuated condition for engaging the next-in-linecarton; and further including a second diverter for simultaneouslyguiding a selected second lug of the second chain to the actuatedcondition for engaging the next-in-line carton.

The system may further include a takeaway conveyor having third andfourth spaced chains, each including at least one lug for engaging andconveying the next-in-line carton exiting the first conveyor. Thetakeaway conveyor is oriented such that the third and fourth chains oftravel in a second direction at a right angle relative to the first andsecond chains of the first conveyor. Each lug on the third and fourthchains is a pop-up lug movable between a retracted position out of theconveying path and an upstanding position in the conveying path.

In another embodiment, the next-in-line carton includes at least oneflap and further including means for folding the at least one flap whilethe carton is conveyed along the conveying path by the selected lug. Themeans for folding the at least one flap includes a first stationary plowpositioned along the conveyor and at least one roller wheel forcompleting the folding in association with the plow. The carton may alsoinclude first, second, and third flaps, and the system may furtherinclude means for folding the second and third flaps positioned along atakeaway conveyor downstream from the conveyor. The means for foldingthe second and third flaps may comprise a stationary plow associatedwith each of the second and third flaps and at least one roller wheelfor completing the folding of each of the second and third flaps inassociation with the corresponding plow. Means for applying oractivating an adhesive for sealing the at least one flap may also beprovided.

In accordance with an eighth aspect of the invention, a method ofcompleting a partially formed carton including a lid having a first flapalong a trailing end thereof is disclosed. The method comprises engagingand at least partially folding the first flap and conveying the cartonwith a lug depending from an overhead conveyor and in engagement withthe at least partially folded first flap.

In one embodiment, the engaging step comprises contacting the first flapwith a projection extending radially from a rotatably mounted wheel. Theconveying step includes further folding of the at least partially foldedfirst flap using the depending lug. In the case where the cartonincludes a second flap, the method includes the steps of folding andsealing the second flap while the carton is being conveyed by thedepending lug. Likewise, when the carton includes a third flap, themethod includes the step of sealing the first and third flaps after thedepending lug is no longer in contact with the carton and whileconveying the carton in a second direction generally perpendicular to afirst direction in which the carton was conveyed by the depending lug.The engaging and partial folding steps may also comprise engaging theflap with the depending lug.

In accordance with a ninth aspect of the invention, a method ofcompleting a partially formed carton including a lid having a first,second, and third flaps is disclosed. The method comprises: (1)conveying the carton in a first direction with the first flap at leastpartially folded while the second flap is sealed; and (2) conveying thecarton in a second direction generally perpendicular to the firstdirection while the first and third flaps are sealed.

In one embodiment, the step of conveying the carton in the firstdirection comprises contacting the at least partially folded first flapwith a lug depending from an overhead conveyor. The step of contactingthe first flap with the depending lug may be completed after the firstflap is partially folded by a rotatable wheel having a radiallyextending projection. The step of conveying the carton in the seconddirection may comprise contacting the carton with first and secondupstanding lugs carried by each of first and second generally parallel,spaced endless chains.

In accordance with a tenth aspect of the invention, a method forconveying cartons along a conveying path is disclosed. The methodcomprises randomly feeding cartons to a conveyor including a first chainhaving a plurality of closely spaced first lugs, driving the chain in anendless path including a forward run adjacent the conveying path withoutregard to the position of a next-in-line carton, and actuating aselected first lug to engage the next-in-line carton upon entering theconveying path adjacent the forward run.

In one embodiment, the conveyor includes a second chain having aplurality of closely spaced second lugs, and the method further includesthe step of actuating a selected second lug simultaneous with theactuation of the selected first lug. Also, the step of feeding cartonsmay comprise delivering the next-in-line carton at a substantiallyconstant speed to the conveyor. In that case, the method furtherincludes sensing a leading edge of the next-in-line carton and using adimension of the next-in-line carton in the conveying direction and thesubstantially constant speed to determine when a trailing edge of thenext-in-line carton is in a position along the conveying path adjacentthe forward run for engagement by the selected lug.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1 a and 1 b are overall perspective views of a carton feeding andforming machine;

FIG. 1 c is a perspective view of a top-loaded carton with a lid orclosure having flaps along three sides thereof;

FIGS. 2 a and 2 b are partially cutaway front and rear perspective viewsof the infeed conveyor forming part of the machine of FIGS. 1 a and 1 b;

FIG. 3 a is a side elevational view of an individual lug conveyorforming part of an intermediate conveyor in the machine of FIGS. 1 a and1 b;

FIG. 3 b is a front perspective view of the lug conveyor of FIG. 3 a;

FIG. 4 a is a bottom perspective view of a chain with closely spacedpivoting lugs for possible use in the lug conveyor of FIGS. 3 a and 3 b;

FIG. 4 b is a partially cross-sectional, partially cutaway viewillustrating the manner in which a selected lug may be actuated in thelug conveyor of FIGS. 3 a and 3 b;

FIG. 4 c is a partially cutaway, schematic side view showing theprogressive actuation of a single lug selected for actuation;

FIG. 4 d is a partially exploded, partially cutaway perspective view ofthe lug conveyor of FIGS. 3 a and 3 b;

FIG. 4 e is a perspective view of the lug conveyor of FIG. 4 d in anassembled state;

FIG. 5 a is a partial end elevational view of the machine of FIGS. 1 aand 1 b, taken from the infeed end;

FIG. 5 b is a partially cutaway, rear perspective view of the infeed endof the machine showing one example of a rotatable wheel for pre-foldinga flap on the carton as it advances through the machine;

FIG. 5 c is a perspective view of the pre-folding wheel apart from themachine and the mechanism for causing the wheel to rotate;

FIG. 6 a is a partially cutaway side view of the machine taken from therear, illustrating in particular the infeed end and the location of thepre-folding wheel relative to the front overhead lug conveyor;

FIGS. 6 b-6 e illustrate the progressive and combined operation of thepre-folding wheel and lug conveyor for folding a trailing end flap on acarton while it is conveyed through the machine;

FIG. 7 is a partially cutaway perspective view of the structures ormeans for folding and sealing a flap positioned along the intermediateconveyor and adjacent to the conveying path defined thereby;

FIG. 8 is a partially cutaway, schematic side view illustrating themanner in which the actuated depending lugs are withdrawn at thedischarge end of the intermediate conveyor;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a takeaway conveyor associated with thedischarge end of the intermediate conveyor;

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of the takeaway conveyor that alsoprovides an end view of the intermediate conveyor;

FIG. 11 is partially schematic side view illustrating the manner inwhich the lugs of the takeaway conveyor are selectively actuated to theupstanding position for engaging and conveying the partially formedcarton while the remaining flaps are folded and sealed;

FIG. 12 is a top view of the machine showing the infeed conveyor and thepositioning of the intermediate and takeaway conveyors generallyperpendicular to each other; and

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the interrelationship between thecontroller for the machine and the various components thereof

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Making reference now to FIGS. 1 a and 1 b showing an overall perspectiveview of one embodiment of the machine 10 of the present invention. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the machine 10 includes an in-line infeedconveyor 12, a takeaway conveyor 16 (which is partially obscured by anoptional cover V in FIG. 1 a), and an overhead conveyor 14 intermediatethe two conveyors 12, 16. The three conveyors 12, 14, 16 together asubstantially horizontal conveying or flow path for objects beingconveyed.

As will also be recognized by those of skill in the art, the machine 10of the present invention is particularly useful in a cartoning line forthe top-loaded style of cartons C including a lid L or closure having afront flap F₁ and generally opposed side flaps F₂, F₃ (see FIG. 1 c)with hinges formed by score or fold lines K. A carton C of this type maybe formed from a blank by an upstream forming apparatus (not shown, butsee for example commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,177,930 to Harston etal., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference). Inthe typical arrangement, the carton C with the lid L in an open positionis filled with product while traveling between the forming apparatus andthe infeed conveyor 12 of the machine 10.

As perhaps best shown in FIGS. 2 a and 2 b, the infeed conveyor 12 inthe illustrated embodiment includes metering devices in the form of apair of spaced “hold back” wheels 18. These wheels 18 are supported byfirst and second spaced frame members R of the machine 10, and serve toinitially receive and engage the corresponding sides of the carton whilea pair of adjacent endless belt conveyors 20 frictionally engage thecarton and urge it forward. This combination of wheels 18 and beltconveyors 20 ultimately deliver the individual cartons in a serialfashion at spaced intervals over idler rollers 19 and through spacedparallel guides 21 to corresponding pairs of spaced, generally parallelinfeed belt conveyors 22 for frictionally engaging the sides and bottomof the carton to deliver it to the intermediate conveyor 14.

In one anticipated arrangement, the feed of partially formed and filledcartons to the machine 10 is random, and the belt conveyors 20, 22 areadapted to accelerate the randomly received cartons such that eachtravels at a known, substantially constant speed upon encountering theintermediate conveyor 14. As should be appreciated, this accelerationalso helps to create the desirable gap with the next-in-line carton. Thefirst set of belt conveyors 20 may be driven by a first motor M₁ (whichmay be a servomotor or variable frequency drive, and may also drive themetering wheels 18 at the same speed) and the second set of beltconveyors 22 may be independently driven by a second motor M₂. The useof independent first and second motors M₁, M₂ of course allows fordriving the sets of belt conveyors 20, 22 at different speeds, asdesired for a particular throughput or mode of operation. As outlinedfurther in the description that follows, the speed control of thevarious motors and other aspects of the machine may be effected by anonboard computer or like logic device serving as a controller (see FIG.13).

With reference to FIGS. 2 b and 3 a-3 b, the construction of theintermediate conveyor 14 for receiving the cartons from the infeedconveyor 12 and conveying them along a horizontal path in a firstdirection is now described in detail. In the illustrated embodiment, theintermediate conveyor 14 is comprised of a pair of spaced, generallyparallel lug conveyors 14 a, 14 b (front and rear when the machine 10 isin the orientation shown in FIG. 1 a) that overlie and form a conveyingpath. As perhaps best shown in FIG. 3 a, each lug conveyor 14 a, 14 bincludes a chain 30 driven in an endless path along a forward or lowerrun (action arrow L) and a return or upper run (action arrow U), withfirst and second transitions T₁, T₂ between the runs. Each chain 30carries a plurality of extensible lugs 32 that, as described in moredetail below, may be selectively actuated from a retracted or normalposition to a depending (or “pop-down”) actuated position at a desiredinstant in time for engaging and conveying the partially folded andformed cartons received from the infeed conveyor 12.

More specifically describing the lug conveyors 14 a, 14 b, each includesa drive sprocket 34 for engaging and driving the corresponding chain 30along an endless path formed by a guide track 36. Preferably, thesprocket 34 of each lug conveyor 14 a, 14 b is mounted on a common shaft38 and gang-driven by a common motive device or third motor M₃ (seeFIGS. 9 and 10). Consequently, each chain 30 is moved along the endlesspath at substantially the same speed. The chains 30 may be conventionallink chains (see FIG. 4 a), which may optionally includefriction-reducing rollers.

As perhaps best shown in FIGS. 1 a and 1 b, the guide track 36 along thereturn or upper run U comprises a pair of elongated, spaced chain guides40 a, 40 b creating a channel adapted for receiving the chain 30. Totransition the chain 30 from the return, upper run U to the forward,lower run L, an end guide 42 with an outwardly directed rounded orsemi-circular engagement face is positioned for guiding the chain 30along the corresponding transition T. Similar elongated spaced chainguides 41 a, 41 b (see FIG. 3 b) form a channel for receiving andguiding the chain 30 along the forward or lower run L, which alsocomprise part of the guide track 36. The chain guides 40 a, 40 b; 41 a,41 b; 42 may be supported by a frame member 44 a, 44 b associated witheach conveyor 14 a, 14 b (see FIG. 5 b).

To ensure that the chains 30 are maintained in a substantially tautcondition, an adjustable tensioner may also be associated with each lugconveyor 14 a, 14 b. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 3 a and 3 b,the tensioner is shown on lug conveyor 14 a in the form of a cam 46having a rounded or semi-circular face. This face engages a surface ofthe chain 30 as it moves from engagement with the sprocket 34 toward theupper chain guides 40 a, 40 b forming part of the guide track 36.Fasteners (not shown) passing through vertically-oriented slots 48formed in the frame members 44 a, 44 b allow for the relative positionof the cam 46 to be easily adjusted to vary the tension on thecorresponding chain 30.

With reference now to FIGS. 4 a-4 e, the manner in which selected lugs32 associated with the chains 30 of the conveyors 14 a, 14 b aresimultaneously pivoted or moved to the actuated or depending positionfor engaging and conveying an object, such as a carton, is now describedin detail. Turning first to the bottom perspective view of FIG. 4 a,each lug 32 is mounted to and carried by the chain 30 such that it iscapable of pivoting movement. For example, a pair of pins 50 a, 50 b mayextend transversely from the chain 30 at selected intervals. A first oneof the pins 50 a passes through a hole (not shown) formed at one end ofthe lug 32 and the second pin 50 b passes through a generally arcuateslot 52 formed in the body of the lug 32. A removable locking retainer54 holds a plate-like bearing 56 against the outer surface of the lug32, and a corresponding elongated connector 58 is provided forinterconnecting the links (not numbered) along the opposite side of thechain 30.

As a result of this arrangement of structures, each lug 32 may freelypivot or rotate about the pivot point P (clockwise in the view of FIG. 4c; note action arrow Q) formed by the first pin 50 a and travel along anarcuate path formed by the slot 52. Thus, a point on the surface of thelug 32 during pivoting is considered to follow an arcuate path.Preferably, when the lug 32 is in the retracted or “laid-back” position,as is the leading lug in FIG. 4 a, the pin 50 a is moved to the lowerend of the slot 52. In this position, a projecting pusher 60 of the lug32 remains withdrawn from the adjacent path of conveyance (see FIGS. 3 aand 3 b) such that it forms an acute angle with the horizontal plane. Incontrast, when the lug 32 is in the actuated or depending position, likethe trailing lug 32′ in FIG. 4 a, the second pin 50 b is moved to theopposite or upper end of the slot 52. Consequently, the pusher 60extends into the conveying path for engaging the carton, and isgenerally perpendicular to the horizontal plane.

In the illustrated embodiment, the lugs 32 are oriented such that, whenthe pusher 60 of each is in the actuated position, the generally planarengagement face 62 is presented for engaging and pushing the cartonalong a trailing end (which with the trailing end flap F₃ in the foldedcondition is generally planar; see FIGS. 6 d and 6 e). However, as notedfurther in the description that follows, the lugs 32 could also beoriented such that the engagement face 62 of the pusher 60 contacts thecarton along the leading end (and may thus be used to provide a squaringfunction as the carton is pushed along by either a belt conveyor or abottom-running lug conveyor, or to hold the carton back while a pop-downlug is used to engage and fold an associated flap). A combination of thetwo approaches could also be used, either on the same conveyor in thecase of lugs spaced far apart or different conveyors in the case ofoverlapping lugs. In either case, the engagement face 62 is preferablyperpendicular to the horizontal plane when the lug 32 is actuated.

With reference again to FIG. 4 a, each lug 32 includes a transverselyextending projection or tab 66. Preferably, each tab 66 is speciallycontoured to include a first sloping or inclined leading face 66 a forengaging a first surface of a diverter, such as a pivotally mountedfinger 68. In the illustrated embodiment, the finger 68 is tapered andelongated in the conveying direction. The finger 68 may project from anelongated support structure 70 positioned adjacent to the conveyor 14 aand, more particularly, along the lower run L thereof.

When in the home position as shown in FIG. 4 b, a first side of thefinger 68 may engage the leading face 66 a of the tab 66 extending fromeach lug 32. This guides it into engagement with a first surface 72 a ofa guide structure 72 supported by the support member 70 and also formingpart of the diverter. As a result, the corresponding lug 32 ismaintained in the retracted position as it travels along with the chain30. In this position, the elongated pusher 60 is incapable of engaging acarton in the conveying path by virtue of the captured nature of thecorresponding transverse tab 66.

An optional guide structure 74 may be associated with each lug conveyor14 a, 14 b. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide structure 74comprises a plurality of flexible fingers 74 a extending from thesupport member 70. The fingers 74 preferably extend in the conveyingdirection and are flexible in order to accommodate overfilled cartons.

When actuation of a particular lug 32 is desired, such as for engaging aportion of a stationary or fleeting carton adjacent to the conveyor(s)14 a, 14 b, the finger 68 is pivoted (counterclockwise in FIGS. 4 b and4 c to position 68′) to engage an different surface 66 b of thecorresponding tab 66. The pivoting movement may be provided by acorresponding motive device, such as a rotary solenoid 76 (see FIG. 4 d,and note that a servo or stepper motor or like device could also beused). In any case, the actuation of the particular motive device chosenis controlled by the controller (see FIG. 13). Preferably, the pivotingis momentary and through a small angular range (e.g., a few degrees inthe counterclockwise direction). As a result, only the transverse tab 66of a single selected lug 32 is engaged but the projection of thenext-in-line lug is not (even when the chains 30 are moving at highspeeds; e.g., greater than 1 ft/s).

Initially, the engagement with the finger 68 in the actuated positioncauses the selected lug 32 to begin the pivoting sequence, such as bymoving from a retracted position to approximately 10° pivoted (that is,the second pin 50 b travels approximately 10° along the arc defined bythe slot 52). The finger 68 when actuated guides the tab 66 a intoengagement with a second, adjacent engagement surface 72 b at theupstream end of the guide structure 72, which is also considered to belocated in or along the transition T₁ from the return run to the forwardrun. The portion of the engagement surface 72 b at the upstream end ofthe guide structure 72 by the transition T₁ is curved or speciallycontoured such that the partially pivoted lug 32 moves to a more fullypivoted position (note phantom position 32″ in FIG. 4 c) and ultimatelyto a fully pivoted position (position 32′ in FIGS. 4 b and 4 c), withthe elongated pusher 60 now fully depending and ready to engage aportion of a carton or other object on an adjacent support surface (suchas a dead plate, a conveyor, a pair of spaced guide rails, etc.). Withthe partial pivoting created by the engagement with the finger 68, thetotal range of movement of the lug 32 in the preferred embodiment isabout 60° (which means that the slot 52 forms an arc of about the sameangle). This actuation sequence performed along the transition T₁ helpsto reduce the amount of gap required between successive cartons. Theengagement with the continuous guide surface 72 b also ensures that theactuated lug 32′ remains in position and prevents inadvertentretraction.

An optional guide structure 69 with a curved engagement face may alsoextend at least partially along the transition T₁ from the return orupper run U to the forward or lower run L (see FIG. 6). The engagementbetween the tip of the pusher 60 and the curved face of this guidestructure 69 helps to resist the centrifugal and gravitational forcesthat tend to rotate each lug 32 toward the infeed end as it movesthrough the transition T₁. This in turn helps to ensure that thetransverse tab 66 remains in the desired position for engaging thecorresponding surface of the finger 68 such that it reaches the desiredsurface 72 a, 72 b of the guide structure 72.

As noted above, conventional lug conveyors typically include lugs spacedapart at relatively large, pre-selected intervals corresponding to thelength of the carton in the conveying direction. The chain carrying thelugs is then driven at a speed corresponding to the rate at which thecartons are introduced (commonly referred to as a “timed” chain). Toensure smooth, uninterrupted operation, this timed chain arrangementrequires that the cartons are fed in a timed sequence corresponding withthe position of lugs. If the carton is early or the lug is behind, adelay may result while a catch up occurs. Alternatively, if the cartonis not yet in a ready position for conveyance at the proper instant intime, the lug during actuation may inadvertently crash into the lid orunderside of carton, resulting in permanent and severe damage (which canin turn lead to a jam in the machine and deleterious downtime to takethe necessary corrective action).

With reference back to FIGS. 3 a, 4 a, and 4 b, the lug conveyors 14 a,14 b used in the preferred embodiment of the machine 10 avoid thisproblem by closely spacing the of lugs 32 along the chain 30. In themost preferred embodiment, the distance D from a point on any leadinglug, such as the center, to the corresponding point on the next-adjacenttrailing lug in the retracted or normal position (commonly referred toas the “pitch”) is preferably about 2.5 inches, and most preferablyexactly 2.5 inches. In this embodiment, this distance D is less than thewidth of each lug in the conveying direction (such that about five lugsin the normal position are provided for each foot of chain 30 and, moreprecisely, 4.8 lugs in the most preferred embodiment (12″ per foot/2.5″pitch). Consequently, the leading and trailing lugs 32 fully overlapwith one another, even in the retracted normal condition. Preferably,the overlap occurs in the conveying direction (parallel to action arrowL in FIG. 3 a) or a direction generally transverse to the conveyingdirection and the vertical direction (e.g., perpendicular to actionarrow L and in the same horizontal plane), depending on the orientationof the lugs 32. In other words, a trailing part of each leading lug(such as the pusher 60) at least partially covers a leading part of eachtrailing lug, both along the upper and lower runs U, L.

This close spacing provides the lug conveyors 14 a, 14 b with theability to vary the pitch of the actuated lugs. Consequently, when thechains 30 are moving at high rates of speed, the lugs 32 are essentiallyinfinitely actuatable at a desired instant in time at any location alongthe endless path where the diverter (finger 68) is positioned. Bypositioning the diverter at the transition T₁ to the forward run, anadjacent carton maybe engaged and conveyed at the point of introductionwithout the need for precisely timing the infeed to ensure that asmooth, uninterrupted operation is maintained. Even in the situationwhere the cartons are randomly fed, the ability to selectively actuatethe lugs (and thus vary the pitch of the actuated lugs on the chain 30)reduces the time between the carton reaching the position for conveyanceand the actual engagement event. A significant increase in throughput istherefore possible with enhanced reliability. Advantageously, the use ofpusher lugs 32 also avoids the possible skewing created when the cartonis conveyed via frictional engagement with top and bottom-running belts.

With reference now to FIG. 5 a, one possible mode of operation of themachine 10 is to deliver the partially formed cartons to a stablesupport surface, such as a pair of spaced, elongated support rails 78,positioned adjacent to the intermediate conveyor 14 and along theconveying path. The carton may be introduced at a constant speed usingthe belts 22, and the leading end maybe detected by adjacent positionsensor 80 (which may comprise a photo-electric, through-beam type sensorwith an opposed transmitter and receiver). Based on the known dimensionsof the carton (which may be inputted by the operator to the controllervia an interface such as a touch screen 82; see FIGS. 1 a and 1 b), theknown position of the leading end (as determined by sensor, which maygenerate a corresponding output signal), and the known speed of travelof the carton (as determined by the infeed belts 22, and may be adjustedby the operator depending on the desired throughput), the finger 68 maybe actuated at the desired instant in time such that a single lug 32 ofeach conveyor 14 a, 14 b moves to the actuated or depending position toengage and convey the carton. The selective actuation of the lugs by thefinger 68 along the transition T₁ ensures that only a selected lug isengaged just in time for engaging the carton (which is spaced from thenext-in-line carton by the metering wheels 18 and belts 20,22) in thedesired fashion. The operation is thus smooth and efficient, whichallows for an increase in throughput without a concomitant increase indowntime to clear deleterious jams.

In the typical arrangement, the partially formed and filled carton C isintroduced to the machine 10 with the lid L or closure in an open stateand the flaps unfolded, as shown in FIG. 1 c. Consequently, as thecarton enters the machine 10, the lid L must be moved toward the closedposition in order to allow for the folding and sealing of the associatedflaps. In the preferred embodiment, the closing is accomplished by astatic plow 84 for engaging the generally vertically oriented lid andautomatically folding it as the carton approaches the intermediateconveyor 14. When the lid L is closed, a first side flap F₂ of thecarton remains unfolded along the leading end and the second side flapF₃ remains unfolded along the trailing end. In this orientation, thefront side flap F₁ faces the front of the machine 10 as it appears inFIGS. 1 a and 1 b. This is known as a “narrow end” leading configuration(that is, the narrower lateral side of the rectangular carton is theleading or front edge). However, it should be appreciated that theconverse configuration may also be used in cartons where the side flapsare on the elongated sides of the carton (although an adjustment in thespacing of the lug conveyors 14 a, 14 b maybe necessary).

Engaging the carton with the trailing end flap F₃ in the unfolded oropen condition using lugs 32 is undesirable in most instances, sincedamage may result. To avoid this situation, the trailing end flap F₃ ofeach carton introduced to the machine 10 may be at least partiallypre-folded before being engaged by the lugs 32. In the illustratedembodiment, the pre-folding or partial closing of this flap F₃ isaccomplished using a rotatable wheel 86 including one or more radiallyextending projections. The projections thus form fingers or paddles 88adapted for engaging the trailing end flap F₃ (FIGS. 5 a-5 c). The wheel86 is preferably positioned between the lug conveyors 14 a, 14 b suchthat when it is rotated, a paddle 88 moves into engagement with thetrailing end flap F₃ to at least partially fold and close it prior toengagement with the selected lugs 32 in the actuated position. In theillustrated embodiment, the wheel 86 includes four paddles 88 (each withan optional transversely extending foot 89), and is thus intermittentlyrotated one quarter turn to cause the corresponding paddle 88 a toadvance into engagement with the trailing end flap F₃. The rotation maybe effected by an onboard motive device, such as a motor M₄. Suitablegearing 90 may also be used to ensure that a full or partial turn of theoutput shaft of the motor M₄ effects the desired amount of rotation inthe wheel 86 for both folding the trailing end flap T₃ and retractingthe corresponding paddle 88 a from the conveying path.

Thus, in another, more preferred mode of operation, as shown in theprogressive views of FIGS. 6 a-6 d, the carton C is introduced to theintermediate conveyor 14 traveling at a generally constant andpredictable speed as the result of the infeed belts 22 (which as perhapsbest shown in FIG. 6 a may extend at least partially beneath theadjacent overhead conveyor 14). As the carton C is conveyed along by thebelts 22, the position of the leading end adjacent to the side flap F₂is detected using sensors 80, and the length in the conveying directionis known from the operator input. Consequently, the moment in time whenthe trailing end flap F₃ is adjacent to the corresponding paddle 88 amay be determined by the controller (which receives the output signalfrom the sensor 80 used to actuate the wheel 86). Preceding or at thatinstant, the wheel 86 is rotated (note counterclockwise action arrow W)such that the next-in-line paddle 88 a sweeps into the conveying path(FIG. 6 b) to engage and at least partially fold the trailing end flapF₃ (FIG. 6 c).

At about the same instant in time, corresponding lugs 32 associated withthe lug conveyors 14 a, 14 b are also selected for actuation bymomentarily pivoting the fingers 68 associated with the lug conveyors 14a, 14 b. The lugs 32 selected for actuation thus move into the conveyingpath slightly behind the at least partially folded trailing end flap F₃(FIG. 6 b). Preferably, the timing is such that the lugs 32 catch upwith the carton C to engage and convey it just as the trailing end flapF₃ is partially folded (at which point the conveying influence of thebelts 22 is no longer necessary). The lugs 32 may then, and possibly foronly a brief instant in time, simultaneously engage the at leastpartially folded flap F₃ with the paddle 88 a and convey the cartonalong (and possibly complete the folding, depending on the timing).Eventually, the carton C advances to a point where the paddle 88 adisengages from the trailing end flap F₃ (FIG. 6 d).

Continued rotation of the pre-folding wheel 86 retracts or withdraws thepaddle 88 a from the conveying path to a position between the lugconveyors 14 a, 14 b (FIG. 6 e). Simultaneously, the next-in-line paddle88 b moves to a ready position for engaging the trailing end flap F₃ ona next-in-line carton. In this particularly preferred embodiment, thecombined use of the pre-folding wheel 86 and the selectively actuated,small pitch (overlapping) lugs 32 with the corresponding diverter(finger 68) positioned at the transition T₁ advantageously provide forsmooth, efficient, and reliable operation, even at high throughputspeeds (e.g., 120 cartons per minute).

Turning now to FIG. 7, as the carton is conveyed along by the dependinglugs 32, the front or “broad” side flap F₁ is folded and sealed. In theillustrated embodiment, an adhesive is applied to the sidewall of thecarton using a gun 90 or like device positioned adjacent to theconveying path (which may be triggered based on the output of thecorresponding sensor 80). A stationary plow 92 protruding into theconveying path may engage the underside of this broad side flap F₁ asthe carton is conveyed. A downstream roller assembly 94 includes one ormore strategically oriented roller wheels 96 (e.g., two mounted forrotation about a horizontal axis; two mounted for rotational about avertical axis) for engaging and completing the folding of the flap F₁with the assistance of the plow 92. Next, a series of downstreamcompression discs 98 receive the folded flap F₁ and apply gentlepressure as the carton is conveyed. This helps to ensure that theadhesive sets such that a proper seal is formed and the lid is correctlyregistered. It should further be appreciated that, during this foldingsequence, the engagement between the pushers 60 of the actuated lugs 32′and the trailing end of the carton C (see FIG. 6 e) helps to ensure thatthe lid L or closure is maintained in the proper position.

The adhesive gun 90, plow 92, roller assembly 94, and compression wheels98 are preferably each adjustable to accommodate cartons havingdifferent heights. Specifically, the mount 100 for each structure mayinclude a vertically oriented slot 102. A shaft (not shown) supported bythe frame R of the machine 10 or an extension thereof passes through theslot 102. A manually operable, quick-release fastener 104 associatedwith the end of each shaft may fix the relative position of each mount,as desired to ensure that the broad side flap F₁ is folded and sealed asdesired. Once the proper adjustment of these exemplary folding andsealing structures is made for a carton having a particular size andstructure, re-adjustment should be unnecessary.

After the broad side flap F₁ is folded and sealed, the depending or“pop-down” lugs 32 continue to push the carton along the guide rails 78and eventually eject it from a discharge end of the intermediateconveyor 14 opposite the end associated with the infeed conveyor 12. Asdisengagement occurs, the actuated lugs 32′ may be automatically drawnout of the conveying path in a generally vertical direction as a resultof the movement of the corresponding chain in the guide track 36 and thecontour of the guide surface 72 b at the opposite end of the supportmember 70. This disengagement allows the trailing end flap F₃ to returnto at least a partially unfolded position (which occurs naturally, sincethe carton was initially formed from a generally planar blank includingthis flap).

More specifically describing the movement of the actuated lugs 32′ atthe discharge end of the intermediate conveyor 14, and with continuedreference to FIG. 8, the guide structure 72 initially may continue toengage the transverse tab 66 of each lug 32. Toward the downstream endwhere the transition T₂ to the return or upper run U begins, the guidestructure 72 also includes a curved or contoured surface 72 b forengaging the tab 66. The contour of this surface 72 b and the contour ofthe guide track 36 for the chain 30 are such that the movement to theretracted position is made in a gradual fashion. Consequently, thepusher 60 of the actuated lug 32′ remains in a ready position untilwithdrawn from the conveying path and does not interfere with theorientation of the squared carton (note phantom positions 33 and 33′).In other words, the pusher 60 is withdrawn from the actuated oroperative position (corresponding to lug position 32′) in a generallyvertical direction, at least until it is away from the path of thesquared carton.

Also noteworthy is the fact that the withdrawal of the lugs 32 andreturn to the retracted position are also accomplished in a passivemanner. This avoids the need for pivot blocks or lice structures thatactively engage and “kick back” the actuated lugs. The potential forbreakage is thus reduced and the service life increased.

The guide structure 72 ultimately terminates, which in the “pop-down”version of the lug conveyors 14 a, 14 b allows the correspondingactuated lug 32 to rotate toward the retracted or home position slightly(note position 33″), such that pin 50 b engages the upper end of theslot 52. However, as the corresponding chain 30 is driven forward overthe sprocket 34 and toward the return/upper run U, the lug 32 is thenrotated or pivoted in the opposite direction as the result of thecombined centrifugal and gravitational forces acting on it (see FIGS. 3a and 3 b). In terms of pivoting movement, the lug 32 ultimately comesto rest in the generally retracted or normal position, and remains inthis position as the chain 30 is driven in an endless fashion until itis again selectively actuated by the diverter (e.g., finger 68).

Referring now to FIGS. 9-12, the carton upon being ejected from theintermediate conveyor 14 may engage a stop 106 and momentarily come torest on a support surface S associated with the takeaway conveyor 16.The takeaway conveyor 16 is generally oriented with a conveyingdirection generally perpendicular to the intermediate conveyor 14, andis actually comprised of a pair of spaced, generally parallel lugconveyors 16 a, 16 b. Similar to the lug conveyors 14 a, 14 b of theintermediate conveyor 14, each lug conveyor 16 a, 16 b may include anendless chain 108 driven along a guide track 110 by a sprocket 112associated with motor M₅. The chain 108 of each conveyor 16 a, 16 bcarries a plurality of selectively actuatable lugs 132, which may beessentially identical to the lugs used in the intermediate conveyor 14and thus are pivotally connected to the chain 108 by pins 150 a, 150 b(with pin 150 b positioned in an arcuate slot 152 formed in the lug 132)in a closely spaced or overlapping fashion. The primary difference isthat the lugs 132 are selectively actuated as the transition is madefrom a lower return run L to an upper forward run U to engage and conveythe carton along the takeaway conveyor 16 (such as by way of engagementbetween the generally planar front face of the upstanding pusher 160 andthe rear face of the carton).

As with the lugs of the intermediate conveyor 14, each may beselectively actuated by moving a diverter (such as a pivoting taperedfinger 168 associated with a rotary solenoid 176; see the side schematicview of the upstream end of the lug conveyor 16 b in FIG. 11) between ahome or non-actuated position and an actuated position (which may beeffected as the result of the controller 300, which may determine whenthe carton is on or adjacent to the takeaway conveyor 16, such as by thebackstop 106, based on the known position of the carton C relative tothe overhead conveyor 12, the known speed of travel, and the fixedtravel distance). The finger 168 in a normal or home position guides theprojection 166 on the lug 132 into engagement with a corresponding guidesurface 172 a of a guide member 172 and an actuated position 168′ thatguides the projection 166 into engagement with the opposite guidesurface 172 b. Consequently, the lug moves from the retracted position(132), to a partially pivoted position (132″), and ultimately to a fullyactuated position (132′). Since the actuated lugs 132′ engage thesurface of the carton opposite the broad side flap F₁ in this preferredembodiment, no pre-folding step is necessary.

During conveyance along the takeaway conveyor 16 by the lugs 132, theside flaps are folded and sealed to complete the carton. As perhaps bestshown in FIG. 9, an adhesive is applied to each side of the carton by apair of spaced guns 190 (which may be triggered by sensor 180), and thenarrow side flaps F₁, F₃ then pass a stationary plow 192. An assembly194 includes one or more roller wheels 196 strategically positionedadjacent to each conveyor 16 a, 16 b for folding the flaps F₂, F₃ inassociation with the plows 192. The folded side flaps F₂, F₃ are theneach engaged by serially arranged discs 198 that provide a slightcompressive force and ensure a proper seal is formed as the adhesivesets. The glue gun 190, plow 192, roller wheels 196, and discs 198 maybe supported by mounts 200, including quick-release handles 202 (seeFIG. 10) to facilitate manual height adjustment.

Advantageously, the immediate engagement resulting from selectivelypopping-up or extending the lugs 132 at the instant in time when thecarton C with the registered, folded lid L reaches the takeaway conveyor16 helps to improve the speed of the overall feeding and formingoperation. Additionally, since the takeaway conveyor 16 is generallyperpendicular to the intermediate conveyor 14, this most preferredarrangement avoids the need for an active mechanism, such as beltsrunning at differential speeds, for turning the carton 90° (e.g., from anarrow side leading orientation with the side flaps in the leading andtrailing positions to a “broadside leading” orientation) before anadditional operation is performed (such as in a downstream flap closingsection). This tends to reduce the amount of continuous floor spacerequired by the machine 10 in any single direction and allows for aconcomitant increase in throughput. As should be appreciated, thetakeaway conveyor 16 may be positioned for conveying the cartons ineither direction (that is, to the right of the machine 10 when facingthat side, or to the left of the machine), depending on the particularenvironment of use.

In a preferred embodiment, the lugs 132 are withdrawn from the conveyingpath in the vertical direction (consider FIG. 8 inverted) while thecarton is engaged by the wheels 198. As a result, the carton is notejected from the takeaway conveyor 16 by the lugs 132. Instead, theengagement with the next-in-line completed carton serves to engage andeject the previously completed carton from the takeaway conveyor 16(such as onto another conveyor; not shown). This vertical withdrawalprevents the lugs 132 from inadvertently damaging the cartons, which aremerely ejected as a result of the slight push forward provided by theengagement by the next-in-line completed carton.

As should be appreciated, the use of small pitch, selectively actuatedlugs allows for the machine 10 in the preferred embodiment to be readilyadapted for use with cartons having different lengths in the conveyingdirection. In the preferred embodiment, the infeed conveyor 12,intermediate conveyor 14, and takeaway conveyors 16 are all adjustableto accommodate cartons of varying widths. For example, the intermediate14 and takeaway conveyors 16 may be provided with jackscrews 204 thatare manually controlled by hand wheels 206 to adjust the spacing of thelug conveyors 14 a, 14 b; 16 a, 16 b. Preferably, the actuation pointfor the lugs 132 on the takeaway lug conveyors 16 a, 16 b issufficiently far upstream to accommodate a significant increase in thespacing of the intermediate lug conveyors 14 a, 14 b. To avoid the needfor adjusting the position of the corresponding motors, the outputshafts may be telescopingly connected to the drive shafts associatedwith the sprockets 34, 112 via splined interface. Instead of manuallyoperated jack screws, automated linear actuators or ball screws may alsobe used for adjusting the spacing of the lug conveyors 14 a, 14 b; 16 a,16 b to accommodate the cartons (in which case the adjustments couldalso be made automatically based on operator input via touch screen 82).

It is also possible to provide a similar motive device (e.g., linearactuator or jack screw) for adjusting the vertical position of theoverhead lug conveyors 14 a, 14 b relative to the support surface, suchas guide rails 78, to accommodate cartons having increased heights. Therange of adjustment in the machine of the preferred embodiment may belimited by the fact that the lugs 32 are of fixed length. To avoid this,it may be possible to use lugs that, in the extended condition, extendthrough the space provided between the guide rails 78. A significantheight adjustment to the conveyor 14 could then be made with the lugsstill extending well into the conveying path.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating the associations maintainedbetween the controller 300, the input device (such as touch screen 82),and the various motors, sensors, and rotary solenoids. As should beappreciated, the controller 300 may be an onboard computer programmed toreceive input from the sensors and the input device and providecorresponding output to the motors and solenoids to control thespeed/throughput and operation of the machine 10, as well as theactuation of the diverters.

Although the arrangement described above as the preferred embodimentincludes the pre-folding wheel 86, it is also possible to use themachine 10 without this structure and to practice a related method offeeding and forming cartons. Instead, the feeding of the cartons couldbe regulated such that the instant in time when the trailing end flap F₃is in a proper position for folding is known. The selected lugs 32 couldthen be actuated at regular intervals to contact this flap F₃ at thatinstant in time to fold it, and then convey the carton along with thisflap held in the folded condition. In other words, the pop-down lugs 32could be used to both fold the trailing end flap F₃ and convey thecarton. In the case where the lugs 32 are overlapping or very closelyspaced, the small pitch would allow for actuation very close to theinstant in time when the flap F₃ is in the optimum position for folding.The use of pop-down lugs 32 is also advantageous in this situation,since the lug 32 during actuation contacts the strong planar uppersurface of the flap F₃, as opposed to the weaker edge (as would occurwith pop-up lugs). While this proposal obviously simplifies the machine10 in some respects, it complicates the overall process by requiringtimed infeed of the cartons. It also tends to slow the carton formingprocess, as compared to the random feed approach. Thus, it may bedesirable only when warranted by the particular circumstances.

Another approach is to use a bottom-running lug conveyor (not shown) inconcert with the overhead conveyor 14. The lugs of the bottom runningconveyor may have their engagement faces oriented towards the infeed endand engage the leading end of an introduced carton. In addition tosquaring the carton, the upstanding lugs could be used to provide atemporary hold back function while the depending lugs are actuated toengage the trailing end flap and convey the carton. The upstanding lugscould then be withdrawn from the conveying path. It is also possible touse a single overhead lug conveyor in such an arrangement.

Briefly summarizing the foregoing, a machine 10 for intended use infeeding and completing partially formed cartons is disclosed. Themachine 10 includes an overhead conveyor 14 that receives partiallyformed and filled cartons C from an infeed conveyor 12. The conveyor 14includes lugs 32 that in a selectively actuated, depending position(32′) engage and convey the carton C in a first direction while a firstflap F₁ on a lid L or closure is folded. A takeaway conveyor 16 includeslugs 132 that in a selectively actuated, upstanding position convey thecarton in a second direction generally perpendicular to the firstdirection while second and third flaps F₂, F₃ on the lid L are folded.The lugs 32, 132 may be closely spaced or overlapping to allow forselective actuation at a desired instant in time for engaging a cartonor other object introduced into the conveying path. A diverter includinga tapered finger 68 or 168 is provided at a transition between theforward and return runs of the overhead and takeaway conveyors toactuate the lugs 32, 132.

The foregoing description has been presented for purposes ofillustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or tolimiting. For example, the closely spaced or overlapping lugs may beused for conveying or engaging objects being conveyed in other types ofcarton feeding and forming machines (such as those with belts travelingat differential speeds to provide the turning function), as well as inmachines besides carton feeding and forming machines. Also, although theuse of static folding structures (e.g., plows and wheels) is preferredfor sake of simplicity, the use of other means for folding/sealing ispossible. For example, movable devices (e.g., extensible fingers) couldbe used for folding the side flaps F₁, F₂, F₃ as the carton is conveyedalong. Instead of using a glue gun, cartons with pre-applied,heat-activated adhesives or coatings could also be used (in which casethe “gun” would instead supply focused, heated air to activate theadhesive or coating in advance of the folding of the correspondingflap). The embodiments described to provide an illustration of theinventive principles and the practical application thereof sufficient toenable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize them in various otherembodiments and with various modifications, as are suited to theparticular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations arewithin the scope of the invention as determined by the appended claimswhen interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they arefairly, legally and equitably entitled.

1. A machine for conveying a carton including a lid having at least oneflap along a path in a generally horizontal plane, comprising: anoverhead conveyor including a first chain carrying at least one firstlug selectively movable from a retracted position to a dependingposition for engaging and conveying the carton in a first directionalong the path in the horizontal plane; a first actuator for assistingin moving the first lug from the retracted position to the dependingposition; a takeaway conveyor including a second chain carrying at leastone second lug selectively movable from a retracted position to anupstanding position for engaging and conveying the carton in a seconddirection along the path in the horizontal plane, said second directionbeing generally perpendicular to the first direction; a second actuatorfor assisting in moving the second lug from the retracted position tothe upstanding position; and a folder for folding the at least one flapwhile the carton is conveyed along the path, wherein the folder forfolding the at least one flap includes a first stationary plowpositioned along the overhead conveyor and at least one roller wheel forcompleting the folding in association with the plow.
 2. The machineaccording to claim 1, wherein the first lug moves between the retractedposition overlying the conveying path and the depending position.
 3. Themachine according to claim 1, wherein the takeaway conveyor includes thesecond chain and a third, generally parallel chain, each chain includingat least one second lug.
 4. The machine according to claim 3, whereineach second lug is a pop-up lug movable between the retracted positionbelow the conveying path and the upstanding position.
 5. The machineaccording to claim 1, further including a rotatable wheel having atleast one projection for at least partially closing the first flapbefore or during the engagement of the carton by the depending lug ofthe overhead conveyor.
 6. The machine according to claim 1, wherein thecarton includes first, second, and third flaps, and further including afolder for folding each of the second and third flaps along the takeawayconveyor.
 7. The machine according to claim 6, wherein the foldercomprises a stationary plow for associated with each of the second andthird flaps and at least one roller wheel for completing the folding ofeach of the second and third flaps in association with the correspondingplow.
 8. The machine according to claim 1, further including a sealerfor sealing the at least one flap once folded.
 9. The machine accordingto claim 1, wherein a portion of the overhead conveyor overlies aportion of the takeaway conveyor.
 10. The machine according to claim 1,wherein the first actuator comprises a diverter for selectively engagingthe first lug and a motive device for moving the diverter between afirst position for engaging the first lug and a second position for notengaging the first lug.
 11. The machine according to claim 1, whereinthe second actuator comprises a diverter for selectively engaging thesecond lug and a motive device for moving the diverter between a firstposition for engaging the second lug and a second position for notengaging the second lug.
 12. A machine for conveying a carton includinga lid having at least one flap along a path in a generally horizontalplane, comprising: an overhead conveyor having a first direction ofelongation, said overhead conveyor including a first chain carrying atleast one first lug selectively movable from a retracted position to adepending position for engaging and conveying the carton along the path;a first actuator for assisting in moving the first lug from theretracted position to the depending position; a takeaway conveyor havinga second direction of elongation, said takeaway conveyor including asecond chain carrying at least one second lug selectively movable from aretracted position to an upstanding position for engaging and conveyingthe carton along the path, said first direction of elongation of saidoverhead conveyor being generally orthogonal to the second direction ofelongation of the takeaway conveyor; a second actuator for assisting inmoving the second lug from the retracted position to the upstandingposition; and a folder for folding the at least one flap while thecarton is conveyed along the path, wherein the folder is positionedalong the overhead conveyor.
 13. The machine according to claim 12,wherein the first actuator comprises a diverter for selectively engagingthe first lug and a motive device for moving the diverter between afirst position for engaging the first lug and a second position for notengaging the first lug.
 14. The machine according to claim 12, whereinthe second actuator comprises a diverter for selectively engaging thesecond lug and a motive device for moving the diverter between a firstposition for engaging the second lug and a second position for notengaging the second lug.
 15. A machine for conveying a carton includinga lid having at least one flap along a path in a generally horizontalplane, comprising: an overhead conveyor including a first chain carryingat least one first lug selectively movable from a retracted position toa depending position for engaging and conveying the carton in a firstdirection along the path in the horizontal plane; a first actuator forassisting in moving the first lug from the retracted position to thedepending position; a takeaway conveyor including a second chaincarrying at least one second lug selectively movable from a retractedposition to an upstanding position for engaging and conveying the cartonin a second direction along the path in the horizontal plane, saidsecond direction being generally perpendicular to the first direction; asecond actuator for assisting in moving the second lug from theretracted position to the upstanding position; and a folder for foldingthe at least one flap while the carton is conveyed along the path;wherein a portion of the overhead conveyor overlies a portion of thetakeaway conveyor.
 16. The machine according to claim 15, wherein thefirst lug moves between the retracted position overlying the conveyingpath and the depending position.
 17. The machine according to claim 15,wherein the takeaway conveyor includes the second chain and a third,generally parallel chain, each chain including at least one second lug.18. The machine according to claim 17, wherein each second lug is apop-up lug movable between the retracted position below the conveyingpath and the upstanding position.
 19. The machine according to claim 15,further including a rotatable wheel having at least one projection forat least partially closing the first flap before or during theengagement of the carton by the depending lug of the overhead conveyor.20. The machine according to claim 15, wherein the folder for foldingthe at least one flap includes a first stationary plow positioned alongthe overhead conveyor and at least one roller wheel for completing thefolding in association with the plow.
 21. The machine according to claim15, wherein the carton includes first, second, and third flaps, andfurther including a folder for folding each of the second and thirdflaps along the takeaway conveyor.
 22. The machine according to claim21, wherein the folder comprises a stationary plow associated with eachof the second and third flaps and at least one roller wheel forcompleting the folding of each of the second and third flaps inassociation with the corresponding plow.
 23. The machine according toclaim 15, further including a sealer for sealing the at least one flaponce folded.
 24. The machine according to claim 15, wherein the firstactuator comprises a diverter for selectively engaging the first lug anda motive device for moving the diverter between a first position forengaging the first lug and a second position for not engaging the firstlug.
 25. The machine according to claim 15, wherein the second actuatorcomprises a diverter for selectively engaging the second lug and amotive device for moving the diverter between a first position forengaging the second lug and a second position for not engaging thesecond lug.